Introduction
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. It’s a perfect season to enjoy fun and unique outdoor games that bring families together, regardless of whether you’re surrounded by snow or just chilly air. From classic favorites to some surprising and unconventional activities, this list of winter outdoor games and activities promises to keep your family laughing and active all season long.
1. Snowball Dodgeball
If you have snow, why not combine the excitement of dodgeball with the thrill of a snowball fight? Divide into teams and create snowballs that are just the right size—not too big to cause injury, but big enough to pack a punch. (Always remind players to aim below the shoulders to keep it safe!) The rules are simple: try to hit the opposing team members with your snowballs while dodging their throws. The last team standing wins! This game is perfect for teens and adults who enjoy fast-paced action.
Variation: For a twist, play in a forested area where trees and natural obstacles add to the challenge.
2. Outdoor Winter Scavenger Hunt
A winter scavenger hunt can be an engaging activity that gets everyone exploring the outdoors, even in the colder months. Create a list of winter-specific items to find, such as pinecones, animal tracks, or unique icicles. This is an excellent game for regions without snow, where you can search for winter flora or cold-weather wildlife. It’s a fun and educational activity that appeals to all ages, making it one of the best outdoor winter games for youth and adults alike.
For younger children, focus on simple, easily identifiable items like a red leaf, a pinecone, or a smooth stone. This makes the outdoor winter scavenger hunt one of the best outdoor winter games for preschoolers too.
Tip: Include tasks like “build a small snowman” or “find a frozen puddle” to make it more interactive.
3. Snow Painting
This creative activity is one of the most unusual winter games for families. All you need is some spray bottles filled with water and food coloring. Head outside and let your kids or teens spray paint colorful designs onto the snow. This activity allows for artistic expression while enjoying the fresh air. It’s particularly great for families with younger children who might not be ready for more intense winter sports.
Variation: Create a snow-painting contest with different themes to inspire creativity.
4. Frozen Bubble Blowing
Frozen bubbles are a magical winter activity that’s sure to captivate both kids and adults. When the temperature drops below freezing, take a bubble wand outside and blow bubbles into the cold air. Watch as they freeze into delicate, glass-like spheres that shimmer in the sunlight. This simple activity is a great way to experience the beauty of winter.
Tip: Use a mix of dish soap, corn syrup, and water to make extra strong bubbles.
5. Snowshoe Relay Race
For those who love a bit of competition, a snowshoe relay race is an exhilarating way to enjoy the winter landscape. Strap on some snowshoes and set up a relay course through a snowy field or park. Participants race in teams, handing off a baton (or snowball) to the next runner. It’s a fantastic way to stay active and warm, even on the coldest days.
Variation: Include obstacles like fallen logs or low branches to make the course more challenging.
6. Winter Bowling
Bring the excitement of bowling outdoors with this fun twist on a classic game. Set up “pins” made of snow or frozen water bottles in your backyard or at the local park. Use a snowball or a lightweight ball to knock them down. This game is perfect for families with younger children, as it’s easy to set up and play.
Tip: Use food coloring to dye the snow or ice pins for added visibility and fun.
7. Snowball Target Practice
Instead of throwing snowballs at each other, turn snowball making into a fun and safe target practice game. Set up targets like empty cans, trees, or snowmen in your backyard. Award points for hitting different targets, and make it a friendly competition among family members. This is one of the best winter outdoor games for youth who enjoy testing their aim and precision.
Tip: Create different point zones for each target to keep the game exciting and challenging.
8. Winter Capture the Flag
Capture the Flag is an all-time favorite, and playing it in the snow adds a new layer of excitement. Mark out a playing field in the snow and bury the flags just enough to make them tricky to spot. Teams must work together to find the opposing team’s flag while protecting their own. This game is ideal for larger groups of teens and adults.
Variation: Play in the evening with glow-in-the-dark flags for an extra challenge.
9. Winter Nature Walk and Hot Cocoa
For a more relaxed winter activity, bundle up and take a scenic walk through a local park or nature reserve. Along the way, collect interesting items like pinecones, twigs, and winter berries. When you’re done, warm up with a thermos of hot cocoa back at home or by a campfire. This is an excellent way to enjoy the season’s beauty and spend quality time with family.
This peaceful walk is perfect for all ages, making it an excellent outdoor winter game for preschoolers who can enjoy the simpler pleasures of nature.
Tip: Bring a camera to capture the winter landscape and any wildlife you encounter.
10. Winter Tug of War
If you’re looking for a fun and unconventional game, try a winter version of Tug of War. Find a sturdy rope and mark a line in the snow or ground. Divide into teams and see which side can pull the other over the line. The added difficulty of slippery ground makes this classic game even more exciting and hilarious. Besides being tons of fun, Winter Tug of War is a great way for everyone to stay active and build strength during the colder months.
Variation: Play on a snow-covered hill to add an extra challenge.
Conclusion
Winter offers countless opportunities for outdoor fun, whether you’re surrounded by snow or just crisp air. From the thrill of a snowshoe relay race to the creative joy of snow painting, these fun outdoor winter games are sure to create unforgettable memories for your family. So bundle up, step outside, and let the winter adventures begin! Don’t forget to share this post with other families looking for winter fun.
Winter is over? Have a look at our ideas for kids, teens and adults.